Javaher Polow Persian Jeweled Rice

Javaher Polow, or Persian Jeweled Rice, is a luxurious and aromatic dish that dazzles both the eyes and palate. This show-stopping recipe features fluffy basmati rice infused with fragrant saffron and layered with a vibrant medley of candied orange peel, golden julienned carrots, and an array of dried fruits and nuts, including barberries, pistachios, and almonds. Enhanced with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and turmeric, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. Its crowning achievement is the crispy, golden tahdig—an irresistible rice crust that forms at the bottom of the pot. Ideal for festive occasions or dinner parties, Javaher Polow can be served as an impressive vegetarian main or paired with proteins for a sumptuous meal. Rich in colors, textures, and Persian culinary tradition, this "jeweled" rice elevates any dining experience.

Nutriscore Rating: 69/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:90 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basmati rice
• 1 teaspoon Saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons Hot water
• 1 orange Orange peel (thinly sliced into strips)
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Water (for orange peel blanching)
• 2 medium Carrots (julienned)
• 3 tablespoons Unsalted butter or ghee
• 1 teaspoon Ground cardamom
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground turmeric
• 0.5 cup Pistachios (shelled and slivered)
• 0.5 cup Almonds (blanched and slivered)
• 0.5 cup Dried barberries (or cranberries)
• 0.5 cup Dried apricots (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
• 1 large Onion (thinly sliced)
• 0.5 cup Chicken stock (optional)
• 2 teaspoons Salt

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rice in water for at least 30 minutes, then drain.

Step 2

Steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water to release their color and flavor. Set aside.

Step 3

Blanch the orange peel strips by boiling them in 1 cup of water for 1 minute. Drain and repeat this process two more times to remove bitterness. In a small saucepan, combine the blanched orange peel strips with 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 tablespoons of water. Simmer over low heat until candied. Set aside.

Step 4

In a large pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter or ghee over medium heat. Add the julienned carrots and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5

In the same pan, melt another tablespoon of butter or ghee. Add the pistachios, almonds, dried barberries (or cranberries), and dried apricots. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Remove and set aside.

Step 6

In a large pot, bring 6 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the soaked rice and cook for 5–7 minutes until the rice is partially cooked but still firm. Drain the rice and set aside.

Step 7

In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Arrange a few thin slices of onion at the bottom of the pot to create a protective layer (optional for making crispy tahdig).

Step 8

Layer the partially cooked rice over the onions, alternating with layers of the sautéed carrot mixture, candied orange peel, saffron water, and spices (cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric).

Step 9

If desired, pour 0.5 cups of chicken stock or additional saffron water over the top of the rice for added moisture and flavor.

Step 10

Cover the pot with a lid wrapped in a clean kitchen towel to trap steam and cook over low heat for 30–40 minutes. This will allow the rice to fully cook and develop a golden crust at the bottom.

Step 11

When ready to serve, gently fluff the rice with a fork and carefully transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with the sautéed nuts, dried fruits, and reserved carrot mixture.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1661.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2493.4

Total Fat 118.8g	0%
Saturated Fat 31.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 16.8g
Cholesterol 93mg	0%
Sodium 5266.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 340.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 58.6g	0%
Total Sugars 133.8g
Protein 51.3g	0%

Vitamin D 1.2IU	0%
Calcium 835.1mg	0%
Iron 19.3mg	0%
Potassium 3427.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 40.6%

Protein: 7.8%

Carbs: 51.6%